5 Best Murder Mystery Books to Read in 2025
We searched for the best murder mystery book and found thrilling stories, quirky detectives, and twists that will keep new readers hooked.
Looking for the best murder mystery book to curl up with? We know it’s tough to pick just one, so we tried, read, and debated with friends (sometimes too loudly). When picking our top 5 for this list, we focused on smart twists, likeable (or hateable) suspects, and plots that made us spill tea on our favorite chair. Get ready for page-turners that kept us up way past our bedtime—and yes, each book promises a satisfying whodunit. No spoilers, just honest opinions on the best murder mystery book options you can trust.
On this list:
5 The Thursday Murder Club by Richard Osman
We picked this one because it’s packed with wit, great characters, and actual mysterious murder action. Our group could not stop laughing and guessing. If you want the best murder mystery book with a quirky, British twist, this one is a winner. Plus, we all wish we had a club like this at the local retirement home.
4 The Maid by Nita Prose
We picked ‘The Maid’ because it spins a clever and quirky mystery in a fancy hotel. The main character is super unique—she’s a cleaner who sees stuff others miss. It’s funny, a bit touching, and full of surprises. Perfect for anyone looking for the best murder mystery book with a twist.
3 The Guest List by Lucy Foley
We picked ‘The Guest List’ because it’s packed with secrets, twists, and a setting so moody it made us double-check our own doors. This book is perfect for best murder mystery book fans who want a fast-paced story and love a big cast of suspicious characters. Our book group was guessing right up to the end—plus, there’s enough drama to make a reality show jealous.
2 One by One by Ruth Ware
We chose ‘One by One’ because it’s a brilliant best murder mystery book with plenty of twists, set in a snowy French chalet. Our group was glued to each page, arguing over who the killer might be until the very end (we were wrong, by the way). Ware has a knack for suspense that keeps even the grumpiest reader guessing.
1 The Silent Patient by Alex Michaelides
We picked ‘The Silent Patient’ because it keeps you guessing till the last page. There’s a murder, but also a mysterious silent wife and a psychotherapist who thinks he knows better than everyone else. Trust us, you’ll want to text your friends after every twist. This is a proper best murder mystery book in the modern sense. Also, we once tried to guess the ending and failed. Miserably.
